Classical Singer Magazine

Bulletin Board

Submit entries to the bulletin board by e-mail at bulletinboard@classicalsinger.com.

Apr 01 Maria Nockin

From Farm Boy to Opera Star : Sherrill Milnes

Rather than sit back and enjoy retirement at his lovely Florida home, baritone Sherrill Milnes has chosen to continue his career, this time working behind the scenes, inspiring and helping the next generation of singers. In this exclusive interview, Milnes shares how growing up on a farm influenced his singing career, what he sees as the major pitfalls for emerging singers today, and what a typical masterclass with him entails. Join Milnes and his wife, soprano Maria Zouves, for masterclasses at this year’s Classical Singer Convention in New York City.

Apr 01 Kathy Kuczka

Concepts for Bel Canto Artistry

When CS went shopping for an article on the basic ingredients of the Bel Canto style of singing, we turned to a true expert on the topic, Metropolitan Opera assistant conductor and prompter and founder of the Bel Canto Institute, Jane Klaviter. As Klaviter says, it’s really best to see the techniques worked out live and in person, and you can do just that at this year’s Classical Singer Convention. Work with Klaviter in two Bel Canto masterclasses, May 24 – 26 at the Brooklyn Bridge Marriott Hotel in New York City. This article first appeared in the January 2004 issue of Classical Singer.

Apr 01 Jane Bakken Klaviter

Ask Erda : How to Ask for a Favor

From writing a prompt thank-you note, to sending a gift, to knowing how to clearly express what you need, Cindy has five great tips for an inevitable part of this business: asking a favor. Do you have a question for Cindy? E-mail erda@classicalsinger.com.

Apr 01 Cindy Sadler

The Art of the Boa : Revealing Character Through the Use of Props

Soprano Andrea Huber brought down the house at the Classical Singer Convention ’07 Opening Session with her performance of Johann Strauss Jr’s “Schwipslied.” No one could forget her stunning singing, or her brilliant use of very a simple prop: a champagne glass. Here she gives more insights into how to use props to bring your performances and characters to life. Don’t miss the chance to meet and work with Andrea Huber at this year’s
Convention, May 24-26.

Apr 01 Andrea Huber

Fine-Tune Your Instrument at the Classical Singer Convention A.M. Health Series

Are you looking for ways to improve your singing and performing? Consider five classes designed to make your instrument the best it can be, offered at this year’s Classical Singer Convention.

Apr 01 Lori Gunnell

Organic Artistry

Teacher extraordinaire Cynthia Munzer has spent years developing what she calls “organic artistry.” Discover some of the principles of artistry that result in honest, sincere singing which can truly move an audience. Join Munzer at the Classical Singer Convention this May to see these principles in action.

Apr 01 Cynthia Munzer

Become an ‘Opera-preneur’ with Dorothy Byrne

Dorothy Byrne knows about defying the odds. She started her singing career later in life, well beyond
the magical age of 30. How did she do it? She used her business acumen, entrepreneurial spirit, and
tenacious, persistent personality. Meet Byrne at this year’s Classical Singer Convention, where she’ll give
you all the marketing know-how you need to find success.

Apr 01 Kay Kleinerman

Auditioning 101 : Dos and Don'ts from Someone Who Did and Doesn't (Anymore)

Maria Zouves, soprano turned opera administrator, talks about what she has done as a singer (good and not so good), what she sees other singers do, and how you can be at your very best for your next audition. Be sure to join her for more auditioning dos and don’ts at two masterclasses at this year’s convention.

Apr 01 Maria Zouves

Certified Classical Singers ’07-’08

After three intense rounds of competition among more than 200 applicants, the judges of the AudComps 2007 named 13 singers Certified Classical Singers for 2007-2008. This month, we feature soprano Meredith Hansen from the Emerging Professional Division. Be sure to join us for the exciting AudComps Finals Concert at this year’s Classical Singer Convention to hear those vying for the title of Certified Singer ‘08-‘09.

Apr 01 CS Staff

Take The Lead : Collaborate Successfully With Your Pianist

Auditions are nerve-wracking enough. Factor in a pianist with whom you have never worked and the situation can become even more dicey. You can make your pianist’s job easier, however, and ensure that you both enjoy the audition experience. Laurie Rogers, assistant conductor with the Opera Company of Philadelphia, tells you how. Meet and work with Rogers at this year’s Classical Singer Convention.

Apr 01 Laurie Rogers

The Third Time’s The Charm : An Interview with Soprano Rochelle Bard

Soprano Rochelle Bard, first-place winner of the Professional Division of the Classical Singer AudComps ‘07, shares how she overcame her stage fright, how she made her most “cried-over” aria her new favorite, and how she has learned to be “in the moment” as a performer.

Apr 01 Jill Anna Ponasik